Indonesian Political, Business & Finance News

Archive: 10 August 2026

Showing 301-350 of 1,377 articles

Esports Becomes a Space for Financial Literacy Education for the Younger Generation

The Esports Kapolri Cup 2026 in Jakarta is being used as a platform to integrate financial literacy into the digital lifestyle of Indonesia's youth. Indo Premier Sekuritas (IPOT) has partnered with the National Police and the Indonesian Esports Association to promote long-term financial education, targeting Gen Z and Gen Alpha. The initiative aims to equip young digital talents with the skills to manage investments wisely, leveraging AI-powered tools to simplify market analysis.

Lampung Financial Festival to Kick Off, Registration Opens 18 August

The Indonesia Deposit Insurance Corporation (LPS) and CNBC Indonesia are set to host the Lampung Financial Festival on 5-6 September 2026, with registration opening on 18 August. The event aims to boost financial literacy and inclusion, particularly among the youth, through discussions, educational classes, and entertainment. It underscores LPS's commitment to its mandate of improving public financial understanding, especially as over 15 million working-age Indonesians still lack a bank account.

Bengkulu Police Arrest Owner of MinyaKita Blending Warehouse

Police in Bengkulu have arrested a 37-year-old Jakarta resident suspected of owning a warehouse used to blend and repackage MinyaKita cooking oil. The arrest follows a raid that seized thousands of packaging units and is part of a broader crackdown on consumer protection, food safety, and trade violations. Authorities are investigating the case under multiple laws to uphold consumer rights and product standards.

West Papua Recovers IDR 29 Billion, Refers 24 Cases to Law Enforcement

The West Papua Inspectorate has recovered IDR 29 billion in state funds from budget management findings, while 24 unresolved cases have been handed over to law enforcement after the 60-day deadline for restitution expired. The Inspectorate noted that 52 of the 76 total findings were resolved through the signing of absolute responsibility letters. A local parliamentarian has urged the provincial government to strengthen internal controls and administrative verification to prevent future irregularities.

Check Your Accounts! Civil Servant and PPPK Salaries in 546 Regions Transferred with IDR 18.9 T

The Indonesian government has disbursed IDR 18.9 trillion to 546 regional governments to address fiscal crises, particularly to cover civil servant (PNS) and government employee (PPPK) salary shortfalls. The funds, transferred last week, consist of IDR 10 trillion in unpaid profit-sharing funds (DBH) and an additional IDR 8.9 trillion top-up for the General Allocation Fund (DAU). This intervention follows President Prabowo Subianto's directive to resolve regional budget deficits affecting personnel spending and development.

Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Menteng Supports Matraman District Environmental Programme

Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Menteng has donated 10 biopore drums to Matraman District as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts. The initiative aims to support the local government's environmental programme by improving water absorption and reducing potential flooding in residential areas. The district head expressed appreciation for the contribution, which is expected to strengthen local environmental sustainability.

Police Upgrade Sutrimo Death Case to Investigation, Schedule Exhumation

The Metro Jaya Regional Police have upgraded the case of Sutrimo's death from an inquiry to a full investigation. An exhumation of the body is scheduled for Wednesday, 12 August 2026, to determine the exact cause of death. The case, which involves allegations of murder, follows reports from the public and the victim's family in Banyumas.

Police Process Crime Scene at South Jakarta School Where 995 Airsoft Guns and Drugs Were Found

Police are conducting a crime scene investigation at a private school in Pondok Pinang, South Jakarta, following the discovery of 995 airsoft guns, ammunition, and narcotics. The school has implemented full distance learning for one week to ensure student safety during the investigation. Authorities are examining the former head of the foundation's room where the items were found.

Transactions Go Digital, BSI Continues to Expand Face-to-Face Services

Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) is expanding its physical service network despite the shift towards digital banking, opening a new BSI Gallery at the Ministry of Health office in South Jakarta. The move aims to cater to diverse customer needs and improve access to sharia banking services for government employees. The expansion is supported by the Danantara Indonesia investment management agency.

NTB Prosecutor's Office Examines Former Bank Director Over Rp11 Billion Loan

The West Nusa Tenggara High Prosecutor's Office has questioned the former president director of a regional government-owned sharia bank as a witness in a corruption investigation. The case concerns a Rp11 billion loan disbursed to PT Carsten Group Indonesia, a private company involved in organising the 2023 Motocross Grand Prix. Investigators are working to calculate state financial losses with the assistance of the Audit Board of Indonesia.

Forest Fire Fallout: Acute Respiratory Infection Cases in North Kayong, West Kalimantan, Reach 934

The Health and Family Planning Office of North Kayong Regency, West Kalimantan, has reported a surge in Acute Respiratory Infection (ISPA) cases, totalling 934 by early August 2026. The increase is directly linked to deteriorating air quality caused by forest and land fires in the region. Health authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activities and wear masks to mitigate the health impacts of the smoke.

Bigmo Admits Regret and Apologises for Creating Vape Promotional Content Involving Children

YouTuber Muhammad Jannah, known as Bigmo, has expressed remorse and apologised after being questioned by Polda Metro Jaya investigators. He was interrogated regarding a live-streamed video in which he involved minors to promote a vape liquid brand. Bigmo stated he has learned his lesson and intends to produce more positive and educational content in the future.

MUI's Key Message on Independence Day: A Time for Gratitude and Unity

The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) has called on the public to observe Independence Day as a moment to express gratitude to God and strengthen national unity. A senior official emphasised that independence is a divine blessing that should be filled with productive activities and adherence to religious duties. The council also provided guidance on celebrations, permitting competitions that promote discipline but warning against those involving gambling elements.

Freeport Indonesia's GBC Mine to Resume Full Operations by End of 2027 After Landslide

PT Freeport Indonesia (PTFI) expects its Grasberg Block Cave (GBC) underground mine to return to full production capacity by the end of 2027, following a landslide in September 2025. President Director Tony Wenas stated that production is currently at 65% capacity, which has significantly impacted the company's gold and copper output and financial performance. Despite the reduced production, PTFI maintains it continues to make substantial contributions to state revenue.

Seeking Bani Bishri's Blessing, Gus Salam: NU is Great Because of the Kiai's Barakah

KH Abdussalam Shohib, known as Gus Salam, has formally sought the blessing of the Bani Bishri family and the Mamba'ul Ma'arif Islamic boarding school in Jombang to run for Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) for the 2026-2031 period. The gathering, held ahead of the 35th NU Congress, was described as a crucial step to ensure his leadership bid remains rooted in the traditions of Islamic boarding schools and Aswaja. Gus Salam plans to seek further blessings from other prominent pesantren families, including Lirboyo and Al-Falah Ploso, before engaging with regional NU chapters across Indonesia.

Mount Karangetang Emits Glowing Lava, Settlements Remain Safe

Mount Karangetang in North Sulawesi's Sitaro Islands Regency produced an effusive eruption on Sunday, sending glowing lava flows down its slopes. The nearest residential area is three kilometres away, and authorities have urged the public to adhere to the recommended danger zones. Officials are also warning of potential pyroclastic flows from accumulated volcanic material.

BKSDA Deploys Team to Necropsy Sumatran Elephant Found Dead in Aceh Tamiang Plantation

The Aceh Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) is investigating the death of a protected Sumatran elephant found in a palm oil plantation in Aceh Tamiang. A necropsy is being performed to determine the cause of death, though initial reports indicate the male elephant's tusks were intact and there were no external injuries. Authorities are urging the public to help protect the critically endangered species by preserving their habitat and refraining from harmful actions.

After Three Years, Garuda TV Embarks on a 'Mahayuga' to Enter a New Era

Garuda TV celebrated its third anniversary with a 'Mahayuga' event at Taman Ismail Marzuki, reflecting on its journey and outlining its future as a national news broadcaster. The event featured the presentation of the Mahayuga Awards to individuals and institutions for their contributions to social welfare, energy transition, and sustainable development. The celebration was attended by several Indonesian ministers, deputy ministers, and heads of state institutions, marking the network's commitment to becoming a key part of the national conversation.

Tanjungpinang Immigration Detention Centre Deports 25 Vietnamese Nationals

The Tanjungpinang Immigration Detention Centre (Rudenim) in Riau Islands has deported 25 Vietnamese citizens for immigration violations. The individuals were flown from Hang Nadim Airport in Batam to Ho Chi Minh City after completing administrative and identity verification processes. Officials emphasised that the enforcement action was carried out professionally, transparently, and with respect for human rights, in coordination with the Vietnamese representative office.

Lawyer Reveals Sutrimo's Final Messages Before Death, Victim Was 'Happy' and Given Perfume by Febrie's Aide

The lawyer for the family of Sutrimo, a former household staff member of a senior prosecutor, has disclosed his final communications before his mysterious death. The victim reportedly sent cheerful messages and was given perfume by an aide to Jampidsus Febrie Adriansyah shortly before he died. Police are now investigating the case as a potential homicide and plan to exhume the body for an autopsy.

Al-Azhar Alumnae Strengthen Muslim Women's Role Through Three Community Empowerment Agendas

The Indonesian Al-Azhar alumnae organisation, WAZIN, has launched three key initiatives to bolster Muslim women's roles in education, religious outreach, and economic resilience. The programmes include the inauguration of a new headquarters, a scholarly assembly for women, and a talk show on Sharia-compliant family financial management. The initiatives aim to empower Muslim women to contribute more effectively to societal welfare through knowledge and ethical practice.

Forestry Minister urges vigilance against forest fires amid strong El Niño forecast

Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni has called for heightened preparedness against forest and land fires, with the meteorological agency predicting a strong El Niño phenomenon from August to October. The government warns that conditions could mirror the devastating 2015 fires and has threatened legal action against anyone clearing land by burning.

Government Reviews Incentives to Mitigate El Niño Impact on Food Production

The Indonesian government is currently reviewing potential incentives to mitigate the impact of the El Niño phenomenon on domestic food production. Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto stated that the Ministry of Agriculture is calculating the necessary measures, while the government focuses on ensuring food availability and distributing water through pompanisation. Economists warn that a potential 'Godzilla El Niño' could combine with ongoing geopolitical tensions to cause prolonged global food supply shocks lasting until 2028.

Prabowo Disburses Rp18.9 Trillion to 546 Regions for PPPK Salaries

President Prabowo Subianto has allocated Rp18.9 trillion to 546 regional governments to cover the salaries of Government Employees with Work Agreements (PPPK). The funding, formalised through a Minister of Finance decree, combines unpaid revenue-sharing funds and additional general allocation grants. The move aims to prevent layoffs of contract-based civil servants and resolve regional payroll shortfalls.

Investor Confidence Tests Resilience of Indonesian Capital Market

Investor confidence has emerged as the critical test for the resilience of Indonesia's capital market amid significant global and domestic pressures. Despite operational continuity, the Jakarta Composite Index (JCI) has corrected by approximately 26% year-to-date, accompanied by foreign outflows of around Rp95 trillion and a weakening Rupiah. Analysts argue that maintaining investor trust, rather than merely sustaining trading activity, is the key challenge facing the market ecosystem.

Education Minister Responds to Discovery of 995 Air Guns at South Jakarta School

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Abdul Mu'ti has addressed the discovery of 995 air guns in a private school foundation office in South Jakarta, emphasising the government's commitment to making schools safe spaces. The minister stated that school management falls under local government authority and deferred legal explanations to the police. Police are investigating the imported air guns, which the claimed owner insists are legally permitted.

Ministry of Immigration and Corrections Partners with Health Ministry for Free Health Checks at Cipinang Prison Ahead of Independence Day

The Ministry of Immigration and Corrections (Imipas) collaborated with the Ministry of Health and the private sector to provide cataract examinations and free health checks (CKG) at the Cipinang Correctional Facility in East Jakarta. The initiative, held to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, involved 81 members of the general public, 81 inmates, and correctional officers from the Jakarta area. The programme highlights a government effort to extend healthcare services to both the community and the prison population.

Ancol Timur-Pluit Elevated Toll Road Construction Reaches 44.12 Percent, Targeted for 2028 Operation

The construction of the Harbour Road II (HBR II) elevated toll road connecting Ancol Timur to Pluit in Jakarta has reached 44.12 percent completion as of early August 2026. The 9.68-kilometre project, valued at approximately IDR 15.8 trillion, is expected to be fully operational by 2028 and will integrate with the Jabodetabek toll network to improve connectivity between the port area and Soekarno-Hatta Airport. The project is managed by PT Citra Marga Nusaphala Persada Tbk, with PT Wijaya Karya serving as the main contractor and PT Bandar Anugerah Jaya providing heavy equipment support.

President Prabowo pledges full support for ecosystem restoration

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed strong support for national ecosystem restoration efforts, according to Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni. The commitment includes rehabilitating 12 million hectares of degraded land and strengthening forest protection. The government also plans to recruit additional forest police and is open to collaboration with external parties to achieve its environmental goals.

Industry Self-Regulation Not Automatically a Cartel

Legal experts argue that standards set by industry associations before government regulation should not be immediately classified as cartel practices. The concept of 'norming' means such self-regulation often forms the basis for official policy. The discussion highlighted tensions between sector regulators like the OJK and the competition watchdog KPPU over issues such as loan interest rate caps.

Harvetnas 2026: Sultra Governor Affirms Veterans' Fighting Spirit

Southeast Sulawesi Governor Andi Sumangerukka led the 2026 National Veterans Day ceremony, emphasising that the veterans' spirit of struggle remains a vital inspiration for national development. The event highlighted the historical significance of 10 August, marking the 1949 Battle of Surakarta, and called for the preservation of patriotic values amidst modern challenges. The Governor urged the public to view veterans as enduring sources of inspiration and unity for a progressive Indonesia.

Home Affairs and ATR/BPN Ministers Sign Circular to Accelerate BPHTB Services

Minister of Home Affairs Tito Karnavian and Minister of Agrarian Affairs and Spatial Planning/Head of the National Land Agency Nusron Wahid have signed a joint circular to expedite the Land and Building Title Transfer Fee (BPHTB) service. The circular aims to resolve technical obstacles such as suboptimal data integration and uneven human resource capacity that have delayed land certificate processing. The government expects this coordination between regional revenue agencies and land offices to improve public service and boost local revenue (PAD).

Bappisus Strengthens Early Detection of Development Hurdles

Indonesia's Development Control and Special Investigation Agency (Bappisus) is intensifying coordination with law enforcement intelligence to bolster oversight of national development. The synergy aims to create an early warning system to identify and mitigate potential obstacles to government programmes. The initiative is framed as essential to ensuring policies deliver tangible benefits to the public and support President Prabowo Subianto's Asta Cita goals.

Ahead of MSCI August 2026 Review, OJK Urges End to Freeze on Indonesian Stocks

Indonesia's Financial Services Authority (OJK) has called on global index provider MSCI to lift the freeze on Indonesian stocks ahead of its August 2026 index review. The regulator hopes that recent capital market reforms will lead to a fair rebalancing and allow more Indonesian equities to qualify as constituents. The MSCI review results, which will affect several global indices, are scheduled to be announced on 12 August 2026.

Airlangga Responds to Destry Damayanti's Single Candidacy for BI Governor, Touches on Independence Issue

Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto has endorsed the nomination of Destry Damayanti as the sole candidate for Bank Indonesia Governor, citing her extensive experience as Senior Deputy Governor. He expressed hope that the House of Representatives would swiftly approve her appointment. Airlangga also addressed concerns about the central bank's independence, arguing that selecting an internal candidate like Damayanti would not alter the institution's autonomy.

Police Community Development Chief Urges Bhabinkamtibmas to Strengthen Community Approach

The Head of the Police Community Development Corps has called on Bhabinkamtibmas officers to enhance their engagement with residents to prevent social issues from escalating into legal problems. He emphasised that effective communication and dialogue can resolve many community disputes without resorting to law enforcement. The directive was issued during a briefing in Cimahi, where officers were also instructed to address local concerns regarding street crime.

Riau Police 'Red and White Expedition' Unfurls 81-Metre Flag on Kampar Riverbank

The Riau Regional Police's 'Red and White Expedition' team reached the remote village of Tanjung Belit Selatan in Kampar Regency, unfurling an 81-metre Indonesian flag to commemorate the nation's 81st Independence Day. The initiative, which involved a challenging journey by land and river, aimed to demonstrate the state's presence in remote areas. Beyond the ceremonial flag display, the police provided healthcare services, distributed 250 food packages and 81 medicine packages, and donated wheelchairs and sports equipment to the local community.

Banjar Investment Surpasses Target, Three Key Sectors Drive Growth

Investment realisation in Banjar Regency, South Kalimantan, has exceeded its target, achieving a surplus of Rp1.6 trillion. The local government is focusing on three leading sectors—agriculture, fisheries, and tourism—to sustain this growth. A new target of Rp2.14 trillion has been set for 2026, with the first quarter already reaching 27 percent of the goal.

Former Bank NTB Syariah Director Questioned Over Alleged MXGP Loan Corruption

Former Bank NTB Syariah director Kukuh Rahardjo and a director of PT Carsten Group Indonesia have been questioned as witnesses regarding a Rp 11 billion working capital loan. The loan was intended to finance the 2023 Motocross Grand Prix (MXGP) event. The High Prosecutor's Office is investigating potential state losses due to alleged procedural violations in the loan approval.

Bappisus Urges Public Not to Be Easily Provoked by Divisive Narratives

The Head of the Special Development and Investigation Agency (Bappisus), Aris Marsudiyanto, has called on the public to remain critical and avoid being provoked by divisive narratives on social media. He highlighted the growing threat of AI-manipulated content, including deepfake videos, which can be used to fabricate information and incite unrest. The warning comes as part of a broader effort to maintain national unity ahead of Indonesia's Independence Day celebrations.

Social Affairs Ministry and Komnas HAM Join Forces to Aid Puncak Conflict Refugees

The Ministry of Social Affairs and the National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) have agreed to collaborate on handling thousands of refugees displaced by the recent conflict in Puncak Regency, Central Papua. The government has already distributed emergency aid to approximately 1,000 displaced persons, while Komnas HAM estimates the total number of refugees could exceed 5,000. Both parties emphasised the urgent need for coordinated data collection and comprehensive support, including food, clothing, medical care, and temporary shelter.

Prabowo's 'Magic' Effect: PT Timah's Valuation Soars Drastically

State-owned tin miner PT Timah (TINS) reported a massive surge in its first-half 2026 financial performance, with net profit and EBITDA increasing exponentially compared to the same period last year. The company attributed the stellar results to a significant rise in tin metal sales volumes and higher average selling prices, supported by improved governance. This performance has led to a 25% increase in the company's equity.

Capital Market Investors Reach 30.27 Million, Signalling Growing Confidence

The number of investors in Indonesia's capital market has surged to 30.27 million as of August 2026, reflecting a nearly 50% increase since the start of the year. OJK Chairperson Friderica Widyasari Dewi stated that this growth signals rising public trust, but emphasised the need to maintain market quality and integrity. The regulator is focusing on strengthening liquidity, transparency, and governance to sustain both domestic and global investor confidence.

Karangetang Volcano's Incandescent Lava Flow Does Not Reach Residential Areas

Incandescent lava flows from Mount Karangetang in North Sulawesi have not threatened nearby residential areas, with the closest settlement located three kilometres away. The effusive eruption on Sunday evening produced lava flows extending up to 1,000 metres from the northern crater. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and adhere to the recommended exclusion zones set by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.

Jakarta's Rp1.28 Trillion RDF Plant in Rorotan Begins Processing 2,500 Tonnes of Waste Daily

The newly operational Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) plant in Rorotan, North Jakarta, built at a cost of Rp1.28 trillion, is now processing up to 2,500 tonnes of waste per day from 16 districts. The facility aims to alleviate the burden on the Bantargebang Integrated Waste Treatment Facility by converting waste into energy and features odour-control technology.

178 Layoffs at PT Namnam Sound Alarm for Cimahi's Garment Industry

The termination of 178 workers at PT Namnam Fashion Industries in Cimahi signals a deepening crisis in the local garment sector. Officials cite weakening global demand, the Middle East conflict, and a depreciating rupiah as key factors driving up raw material costs while orders decline. The layoffs are expected to contribute to rising unemployment in the city.

Hotel Arianz Forcibly Evicted by Mataram District Court

The Mataram District Court has carried out a forced eviction of Hotel Arianz following a dispute over unpaid credit with BNI Palembang. The hotel's heirs claim the auction process was procedurally flawed and that their attempts to settle the remaining debt were rejected. They have appealed to President Prabowo Subianto for intervention, alleging injustice in the legal proceedings.

Govt establishes joint efforts to tackle forest fires: Official

The Indonesian government is coordinating joint efforts across ministries and regional authorities to combat forest and land fires in West Kalimantan, Central Kalimantan, and East Java. President Prabowo Subianto has ordered the deployment of water-bombing equipment and weather modification operations to protect the public. Officials warn that the fires could disrupt health, education, and economic activities, but remain optimistic that the impact will be less severe than in 2023.

PT JIEP Promotes Transparency to Strengthen Public Trust

State-owned PT Jakarta Industrial Estate Pulogadung (JIEP) is reinforcing its commitment to public information transparency as a cornerstone of good corporate governance. The company has consistently improved its information disclosure score, reaching 97.6 in 2025, maintaining its 'informative' status for four consecutive years. This initiative aims to build stronger public trust and ensure accountable management through enhanced digital channels and documentation systems.

X to Overhaul Creator Monetisation Scheme, Emphasising Original Content

Social media platform X is replacing its Revenue Sharing program with a new 'Original Content Rewards' scheme, phasing out the old system. The new program, announced by the platform, will require creators to subscribe to X Premium and meet follower and impression thresholds, while strictly penalising content that merely reposts or copies material from other accounts. This shift follows previous failed attempts to adjust creator payments and aims to realign incentives towards generating novel content on the platform.